Auto Upkeep: Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair (Workbook)

From choosing an insurance policy to performing basic maintenance and repair, Auto Upkeep is the do-it-yourself automotive guide for the driver in you. The Auto Upkeep Workbook accompanies the text, explaining additional step-by-step procedures that can easily be performed with basic tools. It will help you become confident in accomplishing simple, but important, preventative measures on your vehicle - all while saving money.

Chapter 1
Car Identification Activity
Identify an automobile by make, model, year, and type.

Chapter 2
Buying an Automobile Activity
Differentiate between MSRP, dealer invoice, and dealer cost.

Chapter 3
Automotive Expenses Activity
Calculate automotive expenses.

Chapter 4
Repair Facilities Activity
Choose a quality repair facility. Interpret a repair invoice.

Chapter 5
Automotive Safety Activity
Identify the location of emergency and safety equipment.

Chapter 6
Basic Tools Activity
Identify basic tools that are used in automotive shops.

Chapter 7
Interior Cleaning Activity
Clean the inside of a vehicle.
Exterior Cleaning Activity
Clean the outside of a vehicle.
Waxing Activity
Wax the finish on a vehicle.

Chapter 8
Fluid Level Check Activity
Safely check the fluid level in various vehicle components.

Chapter 9
Battery Activity
Safely clean and test the battery.
Charging Activity
Safely test the alternator.
Starting Activity
Safely test the starter.

Chapter 10
Oil and Filter Change Activity
Safely change the oil and filter on a vehicle.

Chapter 11
Fuel System Activity
Identify the components of the fuel system. Change the air filter, CCV filter, PCV valve, and fuel filter.

Chapter 12
Air Conditioning Activity
Inspect and identify the components within the air conditioning system.
Cabin Air Filter Activity
Replace the cabin air filter on a vehicle.
Cooling System Activity
Safely test, inspect, and service the cooling system. Observe thermostat operation.

Chapter 13
Ignition System Activity
Install spark plugs. Inspect, test, and install spark plug wires. Inspect and install distributor cap and rotor on conventional or distributor systems.

Chapter 14
Suspension and Steering Activity
Safely inspect and perform basic service procedures on suspension and steering components.
Tire Inspection and Rotation Activity
Safely inspect tires for wear and rotate tires.

Chapter 15
Brake Inspection Activity
Safely inspect disc brakes.

Chapter 16
Drivetrain Activity
Safely inspect drivetrain components.

Chapter 17
Exhaust and Emissions Activity
Safely inspect exhaust and emission components.

Chapter 18
Payback Period Activity
Calculate payback period.

Chapter 19
Auto Accessories Activity
Estimate the cost of accessories for a vehicle.

Chapter 20
Changing a Flat Tire Activity
Safely change a spare tire.
Jump-Starting Activity
Safely jump-start a vehicle.
Lighting Activity
Replace various lights on a vehicle.
Replacing Wipers Activity
Replace wipers on a vehicle.

Mike has roots in the automotive service industry. He began diagnosing and fixing cars at a young age in his family's service station. He has worked in automotive parts supply stores, towing companies, and service facilities. After graduating from St. Cloud State University (MN) with a Bachelor's degree, he implemented and taught a basic car care program at the high school level. During work on his Master's degree at Illinois State University (IL), he was a curriculum specialist on a National Science Foundation project where he co-authored ten integrated mathematics, science, and technology books designed for team teaching. For nearly four years, he supervised over 60 teachers in Career and Technology Education.

Linda was motivated to learn about cars early on by her desire to be self-reliant and save money. As basic maintenance and repairs were needed on her car she figured out how to do them. She could often be found working on her Pontiac Fiero and reupholstering automotive interiors at her family's upholstery shop. She found guidance from automotive manuals, her family, friends, and husband Mike. During her studies at the University of Redlands (CA), she worked with classmates to design, build, and test a hybrid electric vehicle. After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Linda worked as a Project Engineer for a bicycle component company. Linda's other interests include alternative energies, home renovation, graphic design, and writing.